For Sale: 1932 Chrysler Imperial in Long Island, New York

Specifications: 135hp, 384 cu. in. nine main bearing inline eight-cylinder engine, four-speed synchromesh transmission, vacuum clutch, freewheeling, solid axle and leaf spring front suspension, live axle and leaf spring rear suspension, four wheel hydraulic brakes. Wheelbase: 146″ As Chrysler headed into the 1931 calendar year, its goal was simple – mount a serious assault on the fine car market by offering a more affordable luxury car with beautiful styling and performance to match. The result was the incomparable Imperial series. With their long wheelbase chassis, flowing fenders, and smart LeBaron designed bodies, many consider the Imperials to be among the best looking classics of the era. Although their chassis and drivetrain technology was conventional, with more than 125 horsepower, they were certainly quick. For 1932 and 1933, the CG chassis was further refined to become the CL Imperial. Styling was enhanced with a more imposing front view and a long false hood that extended to the base of the windshield, with hood doors instead of louvers, and slick new bodies that featured a recessed concave belt molding – a dramatic touch that created a design that many believe was the best-looking Imperial of all. Unfortunately, by the time the improved CL Imperial was introduced in 1932, the fine car market had all but disappeared. 1933 would be the last year for the CL, and indeed, many 1933 Imperials were unsold 1932 cars, updated and sold as 1933s. The result was that these – the most desirable classic Chryslers – are also the rarest. In many respects, the example offered here represents the ultimate CL Imperial; at $3,595, the convertible sedan was the most expensive of all. Its an older restoration that shows many miles of smiles, has been well taken care of, and pride of ownership clearly shows. It starts easily, runs and drives very well, and operators as it should. Being a Packard connoisseur myself, I find that this Imperial drives, steers and stops very well (maybe steers better than a Packard). It has long gears for higher speed touring and recent rebuilt clutch, pressure plate and transmission, as well as the fuel pump. Cosmetically, its beginning to show some age, however it still presents very well. The pictures should clearly show its condition throughout. Incredible detail on the 6 Artillery wood wheels really show off this car. Additional pictures can be found at www.tomlafrriere.com